An Adventure in Every Bite!

November 13, 2013

Being Philanthropic at Blue State Coffee!

So I’m not gonna lie, I’m not a huge coffee drinker. BUT I am into latte’s!

The older I get the more interested I become in coffee shops and café’s. Something about the idea of relaxing in an upgraded library with food, drinks, and studies seems genius! I mean how could student not stay engaged in their studies in this atmosphere? Along the Boston University campus lies one of the coolest location for such delights, Blue State Coffee. Mixed with coffee art, a lively staff, and library table style seating both students and locals can enjoy this space from 7am to 11pm Monday thru Friday and 8am to 11pm Saturday and Sunday.

“Philanthropist –

noun

a person who seeks to promote the welfare of others, esp. by the generous donation of money to good causes.”

Founded in September 2006 Blue State set out a mission, “to offer environmentally sustainable, fairly trade coffee; to donate 2% of sales to local non-profit organizations voted on by our customer; to become a “zero” waste business, and to achieve positive change in our communities.” I must say they are right on track. The Boston location always has a busy dining area and constant foot track, proving to me their able to compete just fine against their corporate competitors. And as far as donations go, “Since 2006, we (Blue State Coffee) have opened six stores and donated over $355,000 to local and national non-profit organizations that share our values.” That’s awesome! This list goes on for all the fantastic things this company so far achieved.

I love how this enterprise is able to still offer common value for their product. Prices here are that of a traditional coffee house. Pastries are under $3 while sandwiches range between $4 to $7.50 with your choice of bread (Multigrain, Cranberry Walnut, Olive Rosemary, and Country White). Coffee is between $2 and $4.75 and are “classics” such as macchiato, cappuccino, pour-over, and espresso to name a few. You can also just get a large iced or hot coffee if your keeping it simple.

Craving a snack I thought why not try out a couple of pastries and a random beverage. I ordered a Pecan Sticky Bun and Vegan Blueberry Tea Bread. I washed down my num nums with a ginger beer Blue States carries from Maine Root. Very satisfying for my ginger needs.

First I tried the bun. Sooooo sticky awesome! This sugary pecan delight was so good! Flaky and sweet. A must have if your into sticky buns.

Next up was the Tea Bread. My only regret: not ordering tea. This bread would have been great with a nice hot cup of English breakfast. A perfect morning filler. I liked the pieces of blueberry throughout and this actually marked my first time having vegan bread!

Other recommendations I have for Blue State:

– Turkey and Cabot Cheddar Panini (comes with chips on the side)

– Pumpkin Pie Latte (so good, it doesn’t need sweetener!)

Check out my coffee art! Pumpkin Pie Latte

Want to check out Blue State but don’t live in the Boston area? That’s okay, the company has 5 other locations within Rhode Island and Connecticut. Still not close enough? You can order their mind conscious coffee online and have it delivered to your house!

It’s good to know companies like this still exist where in the end your not only satisfying your hunger craving as a buyer but your also helping to give back to organizations like, the Big Sister Association of Greater Boston, who need our support.